The Scotch Piper is one of those pubs on Merseyside that I've always looked forward to visiting. It's tucked a bit out of the way, not making it too accessible. But this place is a real gem that was my favourite pub of the day. I just wished I'd have had longer here. But with my bus arriving late and more pubs to visit in the area, it was a swift visit. The pub is an ancient thatched building with character aplenty. The gents toilets are outside. 2 handpulls were clipped - Marstons Pedigree New World & Moorhouses White Witch. I opted for the latter, only to be told after that the third handpull also had the Piper 1320 Ale, also brewed by Marstons. But the clip had fallen off. The landlord was very friendly and interested in hearing about the pubs I'd been to on the Isle of Man the previous day, as he was a fan of the TT racing. A classic car rally was to be held there later in the day and his car was already taking pride of place on the car park. A roaring log fire was burning in the bar area and the place was begging me to stay longer. But time waits for no man and I made the decision to leave to get my next bus. I hope to be back though, as this is one of those special pubs that is not to be missed. I read in the local MerseyAle that the brewer wants to introduce food. I hope enough people protest. Leave this place alone to do what it does best.

Used to be a decent pub and well worth a visit, but called in for a mid-week pint for the first time in about four years and was disappointed. You get the impression of being an outsider when entering, the beer wasnt up to scratch and most of all the smell..... Yes we know its one of the oldest inn's in the country, but the stench in there was a mixture of wet dog, straw and your grandads socks!!!

One of the oldest pubs in the UK dating from 1320 it is difficult to miss if you're driving on the main Liverpool-Southport road through Lydiate. A whitewashed, barn like building with a thatched roof it has always been a popular watering hole (well being 700 years old it must be doing something right!). You almost feel like you are entering someones house as you go through the tiny wooden door & into a small room with church like seats against the walls. Incidentally the bar is hidden on the left, although it is more of a serving hatch. 2 real ales, Black Sheep & guest (one from Hydes Brewery on my visit). If you are claustrophobic or like to be guaranteed a seat, then this is not the place for you. A small passageway to the right of the entrance will lead you to some more alcove rooms. Decor is rustic, whitewashed with low ceiling & black beams. There can't be many pubs like this so definitely worth a visit.